Learn About PS5 Storage Expansion Options

Understanding PS5 Storage Basics

The PlayStation 5 comes with an internal storage drive that holds your games, applications, and saved data. The standard PS5 includes 825GB of total storage capacity, though the actual usable space is approximately 667GB. This difference exists because the console's operating system and system files occupy roughly 158GB of the drive. Understanding this distinction matters when planning your storage needs, as the advertised capacity doesn't represent the full amount available for games and content.

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Storage works differently on the PS5 compared to previous PlayStation generations. The PS5 uses a custom SSD (solid-state drive) that enables faster loading times and more sophisticated game designs. This storage speed is a key feature of the console, allowing games to load environments and assets much quicker than on older systems. However, modern games are increasingly larger in file size, with many titles ranging from 50GB to over 100GB each. This means your internal storage can fill up relatively quickly, especially if you enjoy playing multiple games simultaneously.

The PS5 allows you to store games on an external USB drive, but with an important limitation: PS5-optimized games cannot run directly from external storage. You can store PS5 games on an external drive and transfer them back to internal storage when you want to play them. This makes external storage useful for backup purposes but not a complete solution for expanded gameplay capacity. PS4 games, however, can be played directly from external storage, giving you more flexibility with backward-compatible titles.

• Internal storage holds about 667GB of usable space
• PS5-optimized games must run from internal SSD storage
• PS4 games can play from external USB storage
• Game sizes typically range from 40GB to 130GB

Practical Takeaway: Before purchasing additional storage, calculate how many games you typically want installed simultaneously. If you regularly play 3-5 games, internal storage expansion becomes increasingly valuable.

M.2 SSD Expansion: The Primary Solution

The PS5 includes a dedicated slot for expanding internal storage using an M.2 NVMe SSD. This is the main method for increasing your usable PS5 storage beyond the standard 667GB. When you install a compatible M.2 drive, it integrates directly into the console and functions as additional internal storage, allowing you to install and run PS5-optimized games from the expanded space. This solution addresses the primary limitation of external USB storage since games stored on an M.2 drive perform exactly like games on the original drive.

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Not all M.2 drives work with the PS5. Sony has specific requirements that your drive must meet. The drive must be an NVMe SSD with a capacity between 250GB and 4TB. The physical dimensions matter as well—it must be a standard 2280 form factor, measuring 22mm wide and 80mm long. The drive requires a PCIe 4.0 interface and must maintain sequential read speeds of at least 5,500MB/s. Additionally, the drive cannot exceed 11.35mm in height, including any heatspreader. These specifications exist because the PS5 was engineered around these exact parameters, and drives outside these ranges may not function properly.

Sony maintains an official list of tested and compatible M.2 drives that meet these requirements. Popular options have included drives from manufacturers like Samsung (990 Pro), Corsair (MP600 Core XT), Western Digital (Black SN850X), and Seagate (FireCuda 530). Prices for these drives range considerably based on capacity. A 500GB drive might cost $40-60, while a 1TB drive typically ranges from $80-150, and a 2TB drive can cost $150-300 or more depending on current market prices and sales. Capacities larger than 2TB are available but represent a significant investment.

• M.2 NVMe SSD integrates directly into PS5 console
• Must meet Sony's specifications: PCIe 4.0, 5,500MB/s speed, under 11.35mm height
• Available in 250GB to 4TB capacities
• Compatible drives cost $40-300+ depending on capacity
• Expansion enables running PS5 games from additional storage

Practical Takeaway: A 1TB M.2 drive provides the best value for most users, roughly doubling your usable PS5 storage capacity. Check Sony's official compatibility list before purchasing to avoid compatibility issues.

Installing an M.2 Drive in Your PS5

Installing an M.2 SSD into your PS5 requires opening the console's side panel and accessing the expansion slot, but the process is straightforward for most users. First, you'll need to power down the PS5 completely and unplug the power cable. Wait several minutes for the console to fully discharge. Once ready, locate the side panel on the right side of the console (when facing the front). This panel slides off after removing a single screw. With the panel removed, you'll see the M.2 expansion slot located in the upper portion of the console's interior.

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Before installing the drive, check whether it includes a heatspreader or thermal pads. Many modern M.2 drives come with factory-installed thermal management solutions. If your drive doesn't include one, Sony recommends installing thermal pads or a heatspreader to manage heat effectively. Some people apply thermal pads or thin heatspreaders to naked drives before installation. Once your drive is ready, insert it into the M.2 slot at a 30-degree angle, then gently push down until the drive is level with the slot and secure it with a small screw at the end.

After installation, replace the side panel and power on the console. The PS5 will recognize the new drive and prompt you through a formatting process. You'll need to allocate how much of the expanded storage you want to use for PS5 games versus keeping reserved space. Most users allocate most or all of the new drive's capacity to gaming. The process typically takes 10-15 minutes, and during this time you should not unplug the console. Once formatting completes, your PS5 shows the additional storage capacity available in the storage settings, and you can begin installing games to the expanded drive.

• Installation requires removing one screw and the side panel
• Process takes roughly 10-15 minutes total
• A heatspreader or thermal pads are recommended for heat management
• Formatting happens automatically after installation
• No technical expertise required beyond basic mechanical steps

Practical Takeaway: Watch a visual guide before attempting installation to familiarize yourself with the process. The actual installation is simple, but seeing the steps in advance reduces anxiety and ensures you have the right tools.

Comparing Storage Expansion Costs and Capacity

Deciding which storage option to pursue depends on your gaming habits and budget. The most cost-effective approach involves understanding the price-per-gigabyte for different solutions. As of recent market conditions, M.2 SSD drives offer varying cost ratios depending on capacity. A 500GB drive might cost around $50-80, working out to roughly $0.10-0.16 per gigabyte. A 1TB drive typically costs $90-150, or about $0.09-0.15 per gigabyte. A 2TB drive may cost $170-280, potentially lowering to $0.09-0.14 per gigabyte. Larger capacities sometimes offer better value per gigabyte, but the total upfront cost is significantly higher.

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For many PS5 owners, a 1TB expansion provides the best balance between cost and functionality. Adding 1TB to your 667GB of usable internal storage gives you approximately 1.67TB total, which accommodates 15-20 large modern games depending on their individual sizes. This addresses the main pain point for casual to moderate gamers who want to maintain a reasonable game library without constantly uninstalling titles. Power users who want to maintain 30+ installed games simultaneously might prefer a 2TB expansion, accepting the higher cost for maximum convenience.

It's worth considering that game sizes continue to increase. Upcoming titles may